Getting to Boring, Asking the Right Questions, Creating a Sense of Awe, Note-taking, Tricking Your Brain, and Shaun White: Exploring Creative Grief and How to Deal With It

Getting to Boring, Asking the Right Questions, Creating a Sense of Awe, Note-taking, Tricking Your Brain, and Shaun White: Exploring Creative Grief and How to Deal With It

When a project comes to an end, it can leave us with a sense of emptiness and grief. The German sociologist Niklas Luhmann referred to his box of notecards as his conversation partner, emphasizing the importance of leaving notes as if someone else were going to read them. This practice allows us to communicate complete thoughts or ideas that can surprise and educate others. Luhmann believed that mutual surprise is a basic element of communication.

Psychologist Natasha Frome suggests that creative grief often stems from a sense of loss, particularly when we have invested a great deal of energy into a project. Once the project is completed or out in the world, we may feel a loss of control and a loss of identity or purpose. In our fast-paced lives, we rarely have time to fully process these complex emotions.

Frome encourages us to view these quiet times as opportunities for professional growth and self-compassion. She emphasizes the importance of not letting criticism disparage or condemn us, and advises seeking support and controlling negative thoughts. Frome believes that creativity is the antidote to criticism.

Freddy, a creative professional, shares his struggle with the pressure to replicate success and the disappointment that comes with projects that don't meet expectations. He likens this feeling to constantly having to puff and prove oneself to keep a balloon full. Freddy suggests that it is important to determine which aspects of a project are worth fighting for and to develop a value system outside of work. He recommends creating a supportive network and defining success on our own terms.

Photographer Vivek Vadoliya believes that going back to the beginning and reconnecting with our purpose is essential in dealing with creative grief. He emphasizes the importance of accepting ourselves and removing ourselves from spaces where we are heavily influenced by others' opinions. Vadoliya encourages embracing the process of creating and learning from mistakes. He sees struggle as a sign that our work resonates with us and provides an opportunity for reflection and growth.

In conclusion, dealing with creative grief requires embracing self-compassion, seeking support, and defining success on our own terms. It involves accepting discomfort and understanding that the final product may not always meet our expectations. By focusing on the process and continuous learning, we can navigate the complex emotions that come with the end of a project.

Actionable Advice:

1. Practice self-compassion and don't let criticism disparage or condemn you. Seek support from a supportive network.
2. Define success on your own terms, beyond traditional metrics like likes, shares, and money. Develop a value system outside of work.
3. Embrace the process of creating and learning from mistakes. Accept discomfort as a sign that your work resonates with you and provides an opportunity for growth.

Remember, creative grief is a natural part of the creative process. By approaching it with self-compassion and a growth mindset, you can navigate the emotions that come with the end of a project and continue to thrive creatively.